BC construction workers say goodbye to unsanitary port-a-potties as flushable toilets incoming

BC’s Minister of Labour has announced that soon most construction workers will no longer have to use “unsanitary portable toilets” as flushable toilets will be coming to many work sites soon. 

This benefit to workers is coming because changes have been made to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation that will make it mandatory for employers at construction sites with 25 workers or more to provide flush toilets, hand-washing facilities and clean washrooms. 

These changes will come into effect as of October 1st. 

In the coming months, the Province says WorkSafeBC will work with construction companies to ensure they are aware of the changes and understand what is required to comply. 

“We all know how unpleasant port-a-potties can be, but this is actually a health-and-safety issue for construction workers,” said Harry Bains, Minister of Labour. 

“We have heard clearly from the building sector that it is an important issue for workers, and it contributes to the sector’s ability to attract and retain workers, including women.”

The Province stipulated that the new requirement is for toilets that can be connected to a sewer system or holding tank, and use a flow of clean water or a mixture of clean water and chemicals to flush the toilets. 

An additional requirement is to have hand-washing facilities with soap and water, or other methods of hand-cleaning on sites as well. 

The onus to keep the facilities clean, well-maintained, ventilated and executed with sufficient privacy will be on the employers’ shoulders.

“I love my job, but one of the worst parts of going to work is facing the nasty conditions inside of construction-site port-a-potties,” said Tiffany Madden, a member of IBEW 213 and board member with Build TogetHER BC.

“These new rules mean myself and my colleagues will be treated with the basic dignity of having flushing toilets with running water, something workers in most other industries take for granted. This is a game-changer for the construction industry and could even attract more women into the trades.”

In the coming weeks, the Province says WorkSafeBC will issue guidelines to support the interpretation and application of these new requirements.